BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
PACIFIC athletes competing in 24 sports at the XVII Pacific Games 2023 have an obligation to uphold their status as the nation’s responsible ambassadors during the Games.
The call was made by Pacific Games Council President (PGC), Vidya Lakhan, during his speech on Sunday at the Pacific Games 2023 opening ceremony held at the Solomon Islands National Stadium in Honiara.
During the two weeks of intense competition in Honiara, he urged the athletes to compete not only for themselves but also for their respective sports, the reputation of the country, and their pride as responsible athletes.
President Vidya Lakhan urged everyone present to “be a good ambassador of your sport and your country.” “Take part in this game in the spirit of the Pacific Games, upholding and enhancing our values, friendship, fair play, and excellence. Enjoy the hospitality of your good host.”
Lakhan congratulated the athletes on being selected to represent their respective countries at this year’s Games and extended a warm welcome to the 5,000 athletes and team officials of the Pacific along with their respective delegations from the 24 member nations of the Pacific Games Council.
“I congratulate each and every one of the 5,000 athletes and team officials from the 24 participating member countries of the 2023 Solomon Islands Pacific Games on being chosen to represent your nation. You really have the honor and privilege of doing so.
As a single, large Pacific family, let’s rise to the challenges together and celebrate the 17th Pacific Games. “I hope all of your competitions over the next two weeks go well,” he said to the athletes.
He stated that the establishment of these top-class facilities and competition venues for the benefit of Pacific athletes to showcase their skills and excel in their chosen sports—either to earn a spot in the 2024 Olympic Games or to improve their ranking in the world rankings—is the result of the value, support, will, and determination of the Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Hon. Sogavare, and his government, as well as the people of the Solomon Islands.
